I. FOREWORD Objectives of the IPC; History of the IPC; Reform of the IPC; Assistance in the use of the Classification

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1 INTERNATIONAL PATENT CLASSIFICATION (Version 2016) GUIDE I. FOREWORD Objectives of the IPC; History of the IPC; Reform of the IPC; Assistance in the use of the Classification 1. The Strasbourg Agreement concerning the International Patent Classification (of 1971), which entered into force on October 7, 1975, provides for a common classification for patents for invention including published patent applications, inventors certificates, utility models and utility certificates (hereinafter referred to as patent documents ). Under Article 1 of the Agreement, the Special (IPC) Union was established. The International Patent Classification is hereinafter referred to as the Classification or the IPC. 2. The Classification is established in the English and French languages, both texts being equally authentic. Pursuant to Article 3(2) of the Strasbourg Agreement, official texts of the Classification may be established in other languages. 3. The Internet version of the Classification, available on the WIPO IPC website ( represents the official publication of the IPC. It contains the complete text of the classification in English and French of the edition/version in force as well as previous editions/versions. 4. In accordance with Article 4(5) of the Strasbourg Agreement, it has been determined that the abbreviation Int.Cl. of the words International Patent Classification may precede the classification symbols on published patent documents classified according to the Classification. More details on the presentation of these symbols are given in Section XII, below. 5. [Deleted] OBJECTIVES OF THE IPC 6. The Classification, being a means for obtaining an internationally uniform classification of patent documents, has as its primary purpose the establishment of an effective search tool for the retrieval of patent documents by intellectual property offices and other users, in order to establish the novelty and evaluate the inventive step or non-obviousness (including the assessment of technical advance and useful results or utility) of technical disclosures in patent applications. 7. The Classification, furthermore, has the important purposes of serving as: (a) an instrument for the orderly arrangement of patent documents in order to facilitate access to the technological and legal information contained therein; (b) (c) a basis for selective dissemination of information to all users of patent information; a basis for investigating the state of the art in given fields of technology; (d) a basis for the preparation of industrial property statistics which in turn permit the assessment of technological development in various areas.

2 page 2 HISTORY OF THE IPC 8. The text of the first edition of the Classification was established pursuant to the provisions of the European Convention on the International Classification of Patents for Invention of Following the signing of the Strasbourg Agreement, the International (European) Classification of Patents for Invention, which had been published on September 1, 1968, was as of March 24, 1971, considered and referred to as the first edition of the Classification. 9. The Classification has been periodically revised in order to improve the system and to take account of technical development. 10. The first edition of the Classification was in force from September 1, 1968 to June 30, 1974, the second from July 1, 1974 to December 31, 1979, the third from January 1, 1980 to December 31, 1984, the fourth from January 1, 1985 to December 31, 1989, the fifth from January 1, 1990 to December 31, 1994, the sixth from January 1, 1995 to December 31, 1999, and the seventh from January 1, 2000 to December 31, bis. Following the reform of the IPC (see paragraphs 11 to 13, below), for the editions that were in force from January 1, 2006, to December 31, 2010, the Classification was divided into core and advanced levels. Each edition of the core level was indicated by the year of entry into force of that edition. IPC-2006 was in force from January 1, 2006, to December 31, 2008, and IPC-2009 entered into force on January 1, Each new version of the advanced level of the IPC was indicated by the year and the month of the entry into force of that version, for example, IPC From January 1, 2011, onwards, the division of the Classification into core and advanced levels was discontinued and each new version of the IPC is indicated by the year and the month of the entry into force of that version, for example, IPC REFORM OF THE IPC 11. The Classification was designed, and developed for many years, mainly as a paper-based information tool. Changes to the structure of the Classification and to methods of its revision and application were needed in order to ensure its efficient and effective use in the electronic environment. 12. For this reason, member States of the IPC Union decided, in 1999, to launch a reform of the Classification and to introduce a transitional revision period during which, in parallel with revision of the Classification, the changes necessitated by the reform had to be elaborated. The transitional revision period started in 1999 and in 2005 the basic period of reform was completed. 13. The following major changes were introduced in the Classification as a result of its reform: (a) the Classification was divided into a core and an advanced level, in order to better satisfy the needs of different categories of users; (b) different revision methods were introduced, respectively, for the core and the advanced level, namely three-year revision cycles for the core level and continuous revision for the advanced level; (c) when the Classification is revised, patent documents are reclassified according to the amendments to the core and advanced levels;

3 page 3 (d) additional data illustrating classification entries or explaining them in more detail, such as classification definitions, structural chemical formulae and graphic illustrations, informative references, were introduced in the electronic layer of the Classification; (e) general principles of classification and classification rules were reconsidered and revised when appropriate. 14. However, in view of the complications to maintain two independent levels with different revision procedures and publication cycles, the IPC Union decided, in 2009, to discontinue the publication of separate levels of the IPC. In order to satisfy the needs of the users of the core level, it was decided that these users could classify the patent documents they publish using main groups (see paragraph 22, below) of the Classification. ASSISTANCE IN THE USE OF THE CLASSIFICATION 15. The Guide attempts to describe in simple terms and by means of examples how the Classification should be used for the purpose of classifying or retrieving patent documents. Further assistance in the use of the Classification is provided on the WIPO IPC website ( by: (a) the supplementary information in the IPC which includes classification definitions, chemical formulae and graphic illustrations (see paragraphs 44 to 51, below); (b) the Catchword Index to the IPC, which has been established in English and French as well as in other languages; (c) the Revision Concordance List which gives information on how subject matter has been transferred between different places in the Classification as a result of its revision; (d) other various IPC explanatory material, for example, the Guidelines for Determining Subject Matter Appropriate for Obligatory and Non-Obligatory Classification, which can serve as a useful addition to the Guide. 16. [Deleted] 17. Printed versions of the scheme of the IPC may be produced using the PDF files available on the WIPO IPC website. 18. Communications relating to the Classification should be addressed to: World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) 34, chemin des Colombettes CH-1211 Geneva 20 (Switzerland) ipc.mail@wipo.int

4 page 4 II. LAYOUT OF CLASSIFICATION SYMBOLS Section; Class; Subclass; Group; Complete classification symbol SECTION 19. The Classification represents the whole body of knowledge which may be regarded as proper to the field of patents for invention, divided into eight sections. Sections are the highest level of hierarchy of the Classification. (a) Section Symbol Each section is designated by one of the capital letters A through H. (b) Section Title The section title is to be considered as a very broad indication of the contents of the section. The eight sections are entitled as follows: A B C D E F G H HUMAN NECESSITIES PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY TEXTILES; PAPER FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING PHYSICS ELECTRICITY (c) [Deleted] CLASS (d) Subsection Within sections, informative headings may form subsections, which are titles without classification symbols. Example: Section A (HUMAN NECESSITIES) contains the following subsections: AGRICULTURE FOODSTUFFS; TOBACCO PERSONAL OR DOMESTIC ARTICLES HEALTH; LIFE SAVINGS; AMUSEMENT 20. Each section is subdivided into classes which are the second hierarchical level of the Classification. (a) Class Symbol Each class symbol consists of the section symbol followed by a two-digit number. Example: H01 (b) Class Title The class title gives an indication of the content of the class. Example: H01 BASIC ELECTRIC ELEMENTS (c) Class Index Some classes have an index which is merely an informative summary giving a broad survey of the content of the class.

5 page 5 SUBCLASS 21. Each class comprises one or more subclasses which are the third hierarchical level of the Classification. GROUP (a) Subclass Symbol Each subclass symbol consists of the class symbol followed by a capital letter. Example: H01S (b) Subclass Title The subclass title indicates as precisely as possible the content of the subclass. Example: H01S DEVICES USING STIMULATED EMISSION (c) Subclass Index Most subclasses have an index which is merely an informative summary giving a broad survey of the content of the subclass. (d) Guidance Heading Where a large part of a subclass relates to a common subject matter a guidance heading indicating that subject matter may be provided at the beginning of that part. 22. Each subclass is broken down into subdivisions referred to as groups, which are either main groups (i.e. the fourth hierarchical level of the Classification) or subgroups (i.e. lower hierarchical levels dependent upon the main group level of the Classification). (a) Group Symbol Each group symbol consists of the subclass symbol followed by two numbers separated by an oblique stroke. (b) Main Group Symbol Each main group symbol consists of the subclass symbol followed by a one- to three-digit number, the oblique stroke and the number 00. Example: H01S 3/00 (c) Main Group Title The main group title precisely defines a field of subject matter within the scope of its subclass considered to be useful for search purposes. Main group symbols and titles are presented in bold in the Classification. Example: H01S 3/00 Lasers (d) Subgroup Symbol Subgroups form subdivisions under the main groups. Each subgroup symbol consists of the subclass symbol followed by the one- to three-digit number of its main group, the oblique stroke and a number of at least two digits other than 00. Example: H01S 3/02 Subgroups are ordered in the scheme as if their numbers were decimals of the number before the oblique stroke. For example, 3/036 is to be found after 3/03 and before 3/04, and 3/0971 is to be found after 3/097 and before 3/098.

6 page 6 (e) Subgroup Title The subgroup title precisely defines a field of subject matter within the scope of its main group considered to be useful for search purposes. The title is preceded by one or more dots indicating the hierarchical position of that subgroup, i.e., indicating that each subgroup forms a subdivision of the nearest group above it having one dot less (see paragraphs 25 to 28, below). The subgroup title is often a complete expression, in which case it begins with a capital letter. A subgroup title begins with a lower case letter if it reads as a continuation of the title of the next higher, less indented group from which it depends. In all cases, the subgroup title must be read as being dependent upon, and restricted by, the titles of the groups under which it is indented. Examples: H01S 3/00 H01S 3/14 Lasers characterised by the material used as the active medium The title of 3/14 is to be read as: Lasers characterised by the material used as the active medium. H01S 3/05 Construction or shape of optical resonators The title of 3/05 is a complete expression, but owing to its hierarchical position this group is restricted to the construction or shape of optical resonators of lasers. COMPLETE CLASSIFICATION SYMBOL 23. A complete classification symbol comprises the combined symbols representing the section, class, subclass and main group or subgroup. Example: A 01 B 33/00 Main group 4 th level Section 1 st level or Class 2 nd level 33/08 Subgroup lower level Subclass 3 rd level Group III. HIERARCHICAL STRUCTURE OF THE CLASSIFICATION Principle of hierarchy; The option of classifying in main groups only 24. The IPC is a hierarchical classification system. The contents of lower hierarchical levels are subdivisions of the contents of the higher hierarchical levels to which the lower levels are subordinated. PRINCIPLE OF HIERARCHY 25. The Classification separates the whole body of technical knowledge using the hierarchical levels, i.e., section, class, subclass, group and subgroup, in descending order of hierarchy. 26. The hierarchy among subgroups is determined solely by the number of dots preceding their titles, i.e. their level of indentation, and not by the numbering of the subgroups.

7 page 7 Example: G01N 33/483 Physical analysis of biological material 33/487 of liquid biological material 33/49 blood 33/50 Chemical analysis of biological material, e.g. blood This example shows that three-digit, three-dot subgroup 33/487 is hierarchically superior to the two-digit, four-dot subgroup 33/49, and the three-digit, two-dot subgroup 33/483 is of the same hierarchical level as the two-digit, two-dot subgroup 33/ The dots preceding a group title are also used in place of the titles of its hierarchically superior (less indented) groups, in order to avoid repetition. Example: H01S 3/00 Lasers 3/09 Processes or apparatus for excitation, e.g. pumping 3/091 by optical pumping 3/094 by coherent light Without the use of hierarchical levels, subgroup H01S 3/094 would require a title such as: Processes or apparatus for excitation of lasers using optical pumping by coherent light. 28. The hierarchical structure relating to the six-dot subgroup H01F 1/053 is shown in the following example: Section: H ELECTRICITY Class: H01 BASIC ELECTRIC ELEMENTS Subclass: H01F MAGNETS Main group: H01F 1/00 Magnets or magnetic bodies characterised by the magnetic materials therefor One-dot subgroup: 1/01 of inorganic materials Two-dot subgroup: 1/03 characterised by their coercivity Three-dot subgroup: 1/032 of hard-magnetic materials Four-dot subgroup: 1/04 Metals or alloys Five-dot subgroup: 1/047 Alloys characterised by their composition Six-dot subgroup: 1/053 containing rare earth metals Group H01F 1/053 actually concerns magnets of inorganic materials characterised by their coercivity, comprising hard magnetic alloys specifically containing rare earth metals. 29. [Deleted] THE OPTION OF CLASSIFYING IN MAIN GROUPS ONLY 30. Industrial property offices that do not have sufficient expertise for classifying to a detailed level have the option to classify in main groups only. 31. [Deleted] 32. [Deleted] 33. [Deleted]

8 page 8 IV. PRESENTATION OF CLASSIFICATION SCHEMES Order of groups; Guidance headings; Presentation of titles; References; Notes; Interpretation of classification symbols cited in titles, references and notes 34. In order to facilitate use of the Classification, various elements and indications are provided in its text in addition to the titles of the hierarchically related classification entries. ORDER OF GROUPS 35. The groups in each subclass are arranged in a sequence intended to assist the user. For newer subclasses, the main groups are generally arranged from the most complex or highly specialised subject matter to the least complex or least specialised subject matter. A residual main group (for example, 99/00 Subject matter not provided for in other groups of this subclass ), when needed, is placed at the end of the scheme of these newer subclasses. GUIDANCE HEADINGS 36. When a plurality of successive main groups within a scheme relate to common subject matter, a guidance heading before the first of such main groups may be provided. The guidance heading is a short underlined statement that indicates the common subject matter found in all of the main groups it is relevant to (see, for example, the guidance heading Ploughs before group A01B 3/00). The series of groups covered by such a heading extends to the next guidance heading or to a line in heavy type extending across the column, which is used when the following group or groups relate to different subject matter for which no guidance heading is provided (see, for example, the line after group A01B 75/00). In exceptional cases, a guidance heading may be provided for a single main group. PRESENTATION OF TITLES 37. The titles of classification places may indicate their intended content by using a single phrase or several related phrases linked together (see paragraph 61, below). However, titles may also indicate their content using two or more distinct parts separated by semicolons. Each part of such a multipart title should be interpreted as a separate title. This type of title is used when it is considered desirable to treat together distinct kinds of subject matter which cannot conveniently be covered by a single phrase. Examples: A42C 5/00 A41D 10/00 Fittings or trimmings for hats Pyjamas; Nightdresses REFERENCES 38. The title of a class, subclass, group, or note (see paragraphs 41bis and 41ter, below) may contain a phrase in brackets referring to another place in the Classification. Such a phrase, called a reference, shows that the subject matter indicated by the reference is covered by the place (or places) referred to. Example: A01D 69/00 Driving mechanisms or parts thereof for harvesters or mowers (driving mechanisms for the cutters of mowers or harvesters A01D 34/00)

9 page 9 Functions of References 39. A reference has one of the following functions: Limiting references (a) Scope-limitation A reference which specifies subject matter which is taken to another place where it is covered, even though it is apparently covered by the title of the place where the reference appears. This type of reference is very important for the proper understanding and use of the place where it appears. Hence a scope-limitation reference fulfils both of the following requirements: (i) excludes specified subject matter from the scope of this classification place, when this subject matter would otherwise fulfil all the requirements of the classification place and its definition, i.e. would otherwise be covered by that place; and (ii) indicates the place(s) where this subject matter is classified. Example: A47B 25/00 Card tables; Tables for other games (billiard tables A63D 15/00) Indeed billiard tables fit a priori under tables for games other than cards, and yet they are classified in A63D 15/00 instead. In the definitions, scope-limitation references are listed in tabular form under the heading Limiting references. (b) Precedence A reference stating that another place takes precedence is used when subject matter is classifiable in two places, or when different aspects of the subject matter to classify are covered by different places, and it is desired that such subject matter should be classified in only one of those places (see, for example, group A01D 43/00). Such a precedence reference occurs most frequently at subgroup level; in some cases, where several groups are similarly affected, it may be replaced by a note at a higher level (see, for example, Note (2) following the title of subclass A61M). Precedence references have different functions depending on the relationship between the affected places: (i) A precedence reference to a place which is a subset of the place where the reference stands has the same function as a scope-limitation reference. (ii) A precedence reference to a place which is not a subset of the place where the reference stands serves as a classification rule for combination-type subject matter. Example (hypothetic): 10/00 Mechanical means (20/00, 30/00 take precedence) 20/00 Hydraulic means 30/00 Chemical means

10 page 10 The precedence reference from 10/00 to 20/00 has the same function as a scope-limitation reference saying "(hydraulic means 20/00)". Since hydraulic means are a type of mechanical it excludes a subset of the matter covered by 10/00 and places it in a different place. The precedence reference from 10/00 to 30/00 does not exclude chemical means per se, since chemical means per se are not covered by 10/00. Its function is to exclude subject matter that would otherwise be classified in both 10/00 and 30/00, i.e. combinations of mechanical means and chemical means. It has the same function as a scope-limitation reference saying "(mechanical means in combination with chemical means 30/00)". Non-limiting references (c) Application-oriented References in function-oriented places which point to places where their subject matter is covered if it is specially adapted, used for a particular purpose or incorporated in a larger system (see paragraphs 85 to 87, 89 and 90). Example: When considering the subject matter of lasers, i.e. devices using stimulated emission, which are covered by subclass H01S, the following are application-oriented references: eye surgery using laser A61F 9/008 laser printers B41J 2/44, B41J 2/455 laser heads for recording or reproducing G11B 7/125 In the definitions, application-oriented references are listed in tabular form under the heading Application-oriented references. (d) Out of a residual place References appearing in residual places which point to places which provide for the subject matter under consideration. Example: When considering the subject matter of light sources, the subclass F21K is residual to the whole of the IPC, and the following are examples of references to other places which provide for the subject matter under consideration: candles C11C 5/00 electric incandescent lamps H01K semiconductor devices adapted for light emission H01L 33/00, H01L 51/50-H01L 51/56 In the definitions, references out of residual places are listed in tabular form under the heading References out of a residual place. (e) Informative References indicating the location of subject matter that could be of interest for searching, but which subject matter is not within the scope of the classification place where the reference occurs. Hence an informative reference fulfils both of the following requirements: (i) (ii) the subject matter does not fit in the place under consideration, but that subject matter is still interesting for searching purposes.

11 page 11 It is instructive to compare the two conditions above with the two conditions (i) and (ii) relating to a scope-limitation reference instead. As an application-oriented reference usually points from a function-oriented place to an application-oriented place, so an informative reference usually points from an application-oriented place to a function-oriented place. In the definitions, informative references are listed in tabular form under the heading Informative references. Limiting vs. non-limiting references The set of references as defined in subparagraphs (c), (d) and (e), above, are referred to as non-limiting references, as opposed to the limiting references as defined in subparagraphs (a) and (b), above. Limiting references are included in the classification schemes and in the definition, when available. To maintain the readability of schemes while increasing the amount of useful related information provided, non-limiting references are progressively being removed from schemes and transferred to the definitions of the IPC (see also paragraph 48, below). Use and Interpretation of References 40. Some points of detail concerning the use and interpretation of references: (a) A reference is usually placed at the end of the title to which it belongs. If the title consists of two or more parts, the reference is placed after the last part to which it relates. Exceptionally, a reference does not relate to all parts preceding it, but in such cases this is evident from the context. Example: A47C CHAIRS (seats specially adapted for vehicles B60N 2/00); SOFAS; BEDS (upholstery in general B68G) (b) A reference following the title of a subclass or group relates to all the hierarchically inferior places. (c) (d) [Deleted] [Deleted] (e) Where a group is quoted, it is usually the most relevant group but not necessarily the only relevant group. In particular, groups hierarchically related to a group quoted should also be borne in mind. (f) Where two or more items of subject matter are referred to the same place, they are separated by a comma, the classification symbols of that place being given only at the end of that reference. Example: A01B 77/00 Machines for lifting and treating soil (biocides, pest repellants or attractants, plant growth regulators A01N 25/00-A01N 65/00; ) (g) References relating to different items of subject matter referred to different places are separated by a semicolon and are to be read independently.

12 page 12 Example: A47J 31/00 Apparatus for making beverages (household machines or implements for straining foodstuffs A47J 19/00; preparation of non-alcoholic beverages, e.g. by adding ingredients to fruit or vegetable juices, A23L 2/00; coffee or tea pots A47G 19/14; tea infusers A47G 19/16; brewing of beer C12C; preparation of wine or other alcoholic beverages C12G) An exception is where a substantial part of their wording is the same; in this case, the common wording is given once and the different symbols are separated by a comma. Example: A01L 11/00 Farriers tools or appliances (making horseshoes by rolling B21H 7/12, by forging B21K 15/02) NOTES 41. Notes define or explain specific words, phrases or the scope of places, or indicate how subject matter is classified. Notes may be associated with sections, subsections, classes, subclasses or groups. Examples: F42 This class covers also means for practice or training which may have aspects of simulation, although simulators are generally covered by class G09. B22F Metallic powder covers powders containing a substantial proportion of non-metallic material. B01J 31/00 In this group, the presence of water is disregarded for classification purposes. Notes apply only to the places concerned, and their subdivisions, and override any general guidance in case of conflict. For example, Note (1) following the title of subclass C08F overrides the Note following the title of section C. Any information that is found in notes that are associated with the section, subsection, or class level of the Classification is also provided within subclass definitions (see paragraphs 45 to 47, below) that have their scope impacted by this information. INTERPRETATION OF CLASSIFICATION SYMBOLS CITED IN TITLES, REFERENCES AND NOTES 41bis. Being a hierarchically arranged system, most places in the IPC have subdivisions. When a symbol or contiguous range of symbols is cited in a title, reference or note, it is to be understood that the citation comprises not just the symbols explicitly mentioned but their full range of hierarchically inferior subdivisions too. For this reason, the IPC does not use expressions like... class and its subclasses,... subclass and its main groups or... group and its subgroups. When, for instance, a group is cited, its full set of dependent subgroups is comprised in the citation also. Similarly, citation of a subclass also comprises its main groups, and their subgroups, and citation of a class comprises all its subclasses and their full contents. 41ter. Accordingly, when any particular contiguous interval of groups is indicated in a title, note or reference, the end of the interval is identified by the hierarchically highest symbol that covers the last intended group of the interval without incorporating any groups which are not to be considered part of the citation. Where a title, reference or note requires the citation of places which are not contiguous, the title, reference or note will cite each contiguous block separately,

13 page 13 and will not include any citation of a place which is not intended to be part of the title, reference or note. Examples: The note of subclass B23D, This subclass covers machines for shearing sheet metal or other stock material except metal foils workable in a manner analogous to paper, which is covered by class B26., refers implicitly to all subclasses of B26, and all the groups thereof. The title of B23D 29/00, Hand-held metal-shearing or metal-cutting devices (with nibbling action B23D 27/02; hand-operated devices for metal-cutting otherwise than by shearing B26B), refers implicitly to B23D 27/02 and its two subgroups, B23D 27/04 and B23D 27/06, as well as to all groups of subclass B26B. The title of B23D 31/00, Shearing machines or shearing devices covered by none or more than one of the groups B23D 15/00-B23D 29/00; Combinations of shearing machines, refers implicitly to the main groups in the interval B23D 15/00-B23D 29/00 and all the groups thereof, so that the actual interval starts with B23D 15/00 and ends with B23D 29/02. V. USER INFORMATION Indication of changes with respect to previous editions/versions; Supplementary information in the IPC INDICATION OF CHANGES WITH RESPECT TO PREVIOUS EDITIONS/VERSIONS 42. In order to assist the user, the text of the Classification is presented in such a way as to give some indication of the kind of changes it has undergone with respect to previous editions/versions. The following indications are used in the Classification: (a) Text in italics means that the entry in question, in relation to the previous edition/version, either (i) (ii) (iii) is new, or its file scope (see paragraph 74bis, below) has been changed, or has been deleted (see under (d) below). In cases (i) or (ii), above, the entry in italics is followed by the version indicator in square brackets (see under (b) below). (b) The version indicator gives the edition/version where the corresponding entry was new or where its file scope was modified, for example, [4] or [ ]. (c) One and the same entry may be followed by two or more version indicators in square brackets. In order to allow a more convenient presentation, only the last version indicator is displayed while the others are displayed if the user so wishes (for example, by moving the cursor on the said version indicator).

14 page 14 (d) The symbols of groups that have been deleted appear with an indication in italics of where the subject matter concerned is transferred to, or where this subject matter is covered, in the current edition/version. The symbols of groups which have been deleted in the previous editions/versions do not appear in the current edition/version. 43. [Deleted] SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION IN THE IPC 44. In addition to the Classification scheme, various data illustrating IPC entries or explaining them more in detail, which are intended to enhance understanding and ease of use of the IPC, are accessible via its Internet publication. Classification Definitions 45. Although the scope of classification places can be determined from classification titles with associated references and notes, which are present in the scheme of the Classification, it is recommended to use classification definitions for clarifying the exact boundaries of the subject matter appropriate for the classification place. Classification definitions provide supplementary information in respect of classification entries and serve for their clarification, but do not change the scope of classification entries. 46. Classification definitions are prepared following a structured definition format, the most important part of which is the definition statement giving a more detailed explanation of the scope of the classification place. In the definition statement, relevant words and phrases are used which may be alternative to those used in the classification title and which can be found in the patent documents classified in the classification place. Classification definitions also contain other parts, such as explanation of limiting and informative references associated with the classification title, interpretation of special classifying rules affecting the classification place and definitions of terms used in the classification place. 47. Classification definitions are provided only for a limited number of subclasses and groups. In the course of the further development of the IPC, classification definitions will be elaborated for all its subclasses, and for main groups and subgroups, where appropriate. Non-limiting References 48. Non-limiting references indicating the location of subject matter that could be of interest for searching are progressively being introduced into the classification definitions. They do not limit the scope of classification places with which they are associated and are intended only to facilitate the patent search. Chemical Formulae and Graphic Illustrations 49. In the areas of the IPC relating to general and applied chemistry, chemical structural formulae that provide a visual representation of the content of the classification place are of great value. They are introduced in the scheme of the Classification with a limited number of classification entries when they are necessary for defining their scope or for interpreting the scope of their subordinated entries (see, for example, main group C07D 499/00).

15 page Many additional chemical structural formulae are introduced in the classification definitions of the IPC. They serve for illustrating purposes, generally by way of examples, and for facilitating understanding of the content of the chemical areas of the Classification. The chemical formulae are available for viewing through hyperlinks provided in the relevant classification entries. 51. Other explanatory graphic illustrations have also been introduced in the classification definitions of the IPC (see, for example, graphic illustrations under main group F23B 50/00). 52. [Deleted] VI. TERMINOLOGY Standard expressions; Glossary STANDARD EXPRESSIONS 53. It has been possible to standardise a limited number of wordings in the IPC. The explanations of standard expressions used in the text of the Classification follow below. Covered or Provided for 54. When subject matter is stated to be covered by/in a classification place, it means the subject matter has characteristics enabling it to be classified in that place (see, for example, group A41F 18/00). The expression provided for has the same meaning as covered (see, for example, group B60Q 11/00). Expressions Used to Indicate Residual Subject Matter 55. The expression not otherwise provided for, or similar expressions occurring in a group title, means not provided for in any other group in the same subclass or in any other subclass (see, for example, group B65D 51/00). This applies similarly where this expression appears in the title of a class or subclass. However, the use of this expression in a main group title does not expand the scope of the subclass as specified in paragraph 69, below. 56. Groups worded... not provided for in groups... cover subject matter that is not provided for in the stated groups. Groups worded Other... only cover subject matter that is not provided for in other related groups, for example at the same hierarchical level within a subclass or group (see, for example, A41F 13/00, B05C 21/00, respectively). 57. Many subclass schemes include a residual main group, which provides for the subject matter within the scope of the subclass that is not covered by any of the other main groups of the subclass. Such residual main groups are usually located at the end of subclasses. Expressions Used to Indicate Combination Subject Matter 58. In a number of subclasses, there are main groups designating subject matter covered by more than one of main groups or with similar wording. Such groups only provide for subject matter which consists of a combination of characteristics not covered as a whole by a single one of the groups specified, for example, C05B 21/00. Additionally, in a number of subclasses, there are main groups designating subject matter not covered by any single one of main groups or with similar wording. This type of group may provide for both: subject matter which consists of combinations of characteristics not covered as a whole by a single one of the specified groups, and

16 page 16 i.e., e.g. subject matter not covered by any of the groups in the specified range. 59. The expression i.e. has the sense of equals and the two phrases joined by i.e. are to be considered equivalent, one of the phrases constituting a definition of the other. Example: A01D 41/00 Combines, i.e. harvesters or mowers combined with threshing devices 60. The expression e.g. does not limit the sense of the phrase which precedes it, but simply explains it by giving one or more examples. This expression is used for the following purposes: (a) To provide a typical illustration of the subject matter covered by the preceding wording. Example: A42C 5/00 Fittings or trimmings for hats, e.g. hat-bands (b) To draw attention to the fact that what is mentioned after e.g. is definitely included within and covered by the preceding wording although this might not be readily apparent from the wording. Example: B62B 7/00 Carriages for children; Perambulators, e.g. dolls perambulators (c) To indicate matter which is covered by a group but for which no dependent subgroup has been provided. Example: G02B 6/122 Basic optical elements, e.g. light-guiding paths 6/124 Geodesic lenses or integrated gratings 6/125 Bends, branchings or intersections A and B, A or B, Either A or B, but not Both 61. The expression: A and B requires the presence of both A and B in the same example or embodiment; A or B implies the presence of A or the presence of B, or the presence of A and B in the same example or embodiment; either A or B, but not both implies the presence of A or the presence of B but not the presence of both A and B in the same example or embodiment. In General, Per se, Specially Adapted for 62. The expression in general is used when indicating things that are considered for their characteristics, disregarding any specific application, or that are not specially adapted for any particular use or purpose, as defined in paragraph 85(a), below. 63. The expression per se concerns only an item of subject matter itself as opposed to a combination of which that item is a part.

17 page 17 Examples: B22F 1/00 H04N 21/80 Special treatment of metallic powder; Metallic powders per se. Generation or processing of content or additional data by content creator independently of the distribution process; Content per se 64. The expression specially adapted for is used when indicating things that have been modified or particularly constructed for the given use or purpose, as defined in paragraph 85(b), below. Examples: A47D FURNITURE SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR CHILDREN A01K 63/02 Receptacles specially adapted for transporting live fish Or the Like 65. The expression or the like is sometimes used to emphasise that the classification place in question is not limited to the specific subject matter as specified by the wording but that it also covers similar subject matter with essentially the same characteristics. Example: A01D 3/00 Non-abrasive sharpening devices for scythes, sickles, or the like GLOSSARY 66. A two-part Glossary of terms and expressions is included at the end of the Guide. Its first part includes classification terms and expressions relating to principles and rules of the Classification which are often used in this Guide. The second part of the Glossary includes technical terms and expressions used in the Classification itself. VII. SCOPE OF PLACES; FILE SCOPE OF GROUPS Subclasses; Main groups; Subgroups; File Scope of groups 67. The scope of any classification place must always be interpreted within the scope of all its hierarchically superior places. 68. The titles of sections, subsections and classes are only broadly indicative of their content and do not define with precision the subject matter falling under the general indication of the title. In general, the section or subsection titles very loosely indicate the broad nature of the scope of the subject matter to be found within the section or subsection, and the class title gives an overall indication of the subject matter covered by its subclasses. By contrast, it is the intention in the Classification that the titles of subclasses, taking into consideration any references, definitions or notes associated therewith, define as precisely as possible the scope of the subject matter covered thereby. The titles of main groups and subgroups, again subject to any references, definitions or notes associated therewith, precisely define the subject matter covered thereby (see the example cited in paragraph 28, above). 68bis. Under certain circumstances, a place can cover more than its explicitly stated scope: (a) Details or components that are specially adapted for, or used only with, the explicitly stated subject matter of the place and not provided for elsewhere (see paragraph 99, below). (b) Combinations of the explicitly stated subject matter of the place with other subject matter (see paragraphs 145, 150 and 154, below).

18 page 18 (c) Subject matter of a category of invention not covered by the place and not covered elsewhere, but related to the explicitly stated subject matter of the place. For example, if there is no group for the production of a certain product, the group for the product also covers production thereof (see paragraphs 92 to 98, below). SUBCLASSES 69. The scope of a subclass is defined by the following, taken together: (a) The subclass title which describes, as precisely as is possible in a small number of words, the main characteristic of a portion of the whole body of knowledge covered by the Classification, this portion being the field of the subclass to which all its groups relate. (b) Any limiting references which follow the subclass title or its class title. These references indicate certain parts of the field described by the title which are covered by other subclasses and are therefore excluded. These parts may constitute a substantial part of the field described by the title and, thus, the limiting references are in some respects as important as the title itself. For example, in subclass A47D FURNITURE SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR CHILDREN a considerable part, namely school benches or desks, of the subject matter covered by the title is excluded in view of a reference to particular groups of subclass A47B, thus considerably altering the scope of subclass A47D. (c) Any limiting references which appear in groups of a subclass and which refer subject matter to another class or subclass also restrict the scope of the subclass in question. For example, in subclass B43K IMPLEMENTS FOR WRITING OR DRAWING writing points for indicating or recording apparatus are referred out of group 1/00 to group 15/16 of subclass G01D, thereby reducing the scope of the subject matter covered by the title of subclass B43K. (d) Any notes appearing under the subclass title or its class, subsection or section title. Such notes may define terms or expressions used in the title, or elsewhere, or clarify the relation between the subclass and other places. Examples: (i) The Notes following the title of the subsection ENGINES OR PUMPS, embracing classes F01 to F04, which notes define the terms or expressions used throughout the subsection. (ii) Note (1) following the title of subclass F01B, which defines its scope in relation to subclasses F01C to F01P. (iii) The Note following the title of section C which defines groups of elements. The titles of subclasses sometimes do not embrace the titles of all main groups under them. However, the scope of a subclass should always be understood to include all subject matter specifically stated in the titles of its main groups. 70. A more detailed explanation of the scope of a subclass is provided by its classification definition where it is available. In particular, the exact boundaries of any subject matter added to the scope of the subclass by its main group titles are specified.

19 page 19 MAIN GROUPS 71. The scope of a main group is to be interpreted only within the scope of its subclass (as indicated above). Subject to this, the scope of a main group is determined by its title as modified by any relevant references or notes associated with the main group. For example, a group for bearings in a subclass whose title is limited to a particular apparatus must be read as covering only features of bearings peculiar to that apparatus, for example, the arrangement of bearings in the apparatus. A more detailed explanation of the scope of a main group is provided by its classification definition where it is available. 71bis. Attention is drawn to the fact that guidance headings are intended to be only informative and, as a rule, do not define nor modify the scope of the groups covered by them. SUBGROUPS 72. The scope of a subgroup is likewise to be interpreted only within the scope of its subclass, main group and of any subgroup under which it is indented. Subject to this, the scope of a subgroup is determined by its title as modified by any relevant references or notes associated therewith. Example: B64C AEROPLANES; HELICOPTERS (air-cushion vehicles B60V) 5/00 Stabilising surfaces (attaching stabilising surfaces to fuselage B64C 1/26) 5/06 Fins (specially for wings B64C 5/08) 5/08 mounted on, or supported by, wings 5/10 adjustable 5/12 for retraction against or within fuselage or nacelle (a) Main group 5/00 must be read within the scope of the subclass title, i.e., as stabilising surfaces of aeroplanes or helicopters. Moreover, the reference following the title of subclass B64C (air-cushion vehicles B60V) indicates that all subject matter concerning air-cushion vehicles is classified in subclass B60V, so that, in relation to main group 5/00 and all its subgroups, stabilising surfaces of air-cushion vehicles are classified in subclass B60V. Furthermore, the reference in main group 5/00 (attaching stabilising surfaces to fuselage 1/26) indicates that all subject matter concerned with attaching stabilising surfaces to fuselages is classified in subgroup 1/26. (b) Subgroup 5/06, which is indented under main group 5/00, must be read as aeroplane or helicopter stabilising surfaces in the form of fins. Moreover, the reference following the title of subgroup 5/06 (specially for wings 5/08) indicates that fins designed specially for wings are classified in subgroup 5/08. (c) Similarly, subgroup 5/08, which is of the same one-dot indentation under main group 5/00 as subgroup 5/06, must be read as aeroplane or helicopter stabilising surfaces mounted on, or supported by, wings, and subgroup 5/10 as adjustable stabilising surfaces of aeroplanes or helicopters. (d) Subgroup 5/12 is indented under subgroup 5/10 and must be read within the scope thereof, i.e., as adjustable stabilising surfaces of aeroplanes or helicopters for retraction against or within fuselage or nacelle.

20 page A subgroup covers only a particular part of the subject matter covered by the group under which it is indented. Therefore, a group may have only one subgroup or many. Each subgroup is devised to cover a portion of the subject matter that can serve as a self-contained field of search. A group is thus used for classifying subject matter which falls within its scope but is not covered by a subgroup. 74. The scope of any subgroup in comparison with its hierarchically higher group is determined by the presence of one or more essential characteristics, specified in the title of the subgroup. Two cases may arise: (a) The essential characteristics are not expressed in the title of the hierarchically higher group. Example: H01F 5/00 H01F 5/02 Coils wound on non-magnetic supports (b) The essential characteristics are already expressed in the title of the hierarchically higher group. Example: A63C 5/00 A63C 5/03 Skis or snowboards Mono skis; Snowboards FILE SCOPE OF GROUPS 74bis. As subject matter that belongs to a subgroup should not be classified in its parent group, there is a difference between the complete scope of a parent group (i.e. including its subgroups) and the subject matter that should actually be classified in it. The subject matter that should actually be classified in a group is called the file scope. For a group that has no subgroups, the scope and the file scope are identical. When a group gets new subgroups, its scope remains unchanged, but the file scope is reduced. The file scope of a group can be understood as the residual subject matter classified in the group itself, but not in its subgroups. VIII. PRINCIPLES OF THE CLASSIFICATION Invention information; Additional information; Categories of subject matter; Places in the Classification for technical subjects of inventions; Function-oriented, application-oriented and residual places; Classification of technical subjects of inventions 75. The primary purpose of the Classification is to facilitate the retrieval of technical subject matter. It is therefore devised, and has to be used, in such a way that one and the same technical subject is classified in, and thus can be retrieved from, one and the same place within the Classification; this place being the one most relevant to be searched for that subject. 76. Two types of information may be found in patent documents. These are invention information and additional information. The meaning of these expressions is explained in paragraphs 77 to 80, below. The rules of selection of classification symbols are the same for both types of information (see also chapter XI, below). Although in the Guide reference is often made only to inventions or technical subjects of inventions, it is to be understood that the remarks made in the Guide apply equally to technical subjects which are covered by the additional information.